Parents need to know that while generally directed at kids, this sequel is scarier and more suspenseful than Babe, the very light-hearted original. There are a number of life-threatening incidents involving dogs, cats, and monkeys, as well as Babe and Ferdie, the duck; they're in danger throughout the film. Included are chase sequences (some with snarling dogs and bared teeth), falls, near drownings, and run-ins with frightening authorities who capture and cage the animals. In addition, numerous accidents happen to Farmer Hoggett and Mrs. Hoggett, and Babe is separated from his owner for a lengthy period of time in a turbulent city.

Families can talk about tolerance and accepting others.

The good stuff

Educational value: Introduces a caring chimpanzee family, and details the family relationship after the birth of two chimp babies.

Messages: Promotes the idea that "a kind and steady heart can mend a sorry world." The fact that acts of caring and unselfishness can affect very positive change is illustrated by Babe's rescue of a ferocious dog, after which the animal has a change of heart and becomes protective and loyal to Babe and his friends.

Role models: Babe is an exemplary character. When making a decision, the pig opts for the unselfish, generous, and compassionate choice in every case. He is a role model for all the other characters and they become better beings because of him. Authorities (dog catchers, airport security people) are cartoonishly mean-spirited and unfeeling. Parental figures, Farmer and Mrs. Hoggett, consistently treat their animals well and go to great lengths to assure their well-being.

What to watch for

Violence and scariness: Though exaggerated and farcical, there are many action sequences in which animals are in jeopardy, including savage, chained dogs chasing Babe; Ferdie, the beloved duck, being a target on a shooting range; a fish left to die without water; a wheelchair-bound dog dragged by a truck; officers catching homeless animals and locking them up. Farmer Hoggett takes a bad fall down a well and is severely injured; Mrs. Hoggett is arrested and manhandled more than once; and a clown is carried off on a stretcher, unmoving and obviously very ill.

Sexy stuff: One scene shows numerous females in bikinis. Mrs. Hoggett is taken away by airport authorities, and the implication is that she will be strip-searched.

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